There are many jobs that require employees to drive work vehicles. Delivery, construction, nanny-ing, driving a taxi, bus, shuttle, or tow truck…the list goes on. And unfortunately, sometimes, while employees are driving work cars, accidents happen.
For example, Power Ranch in the Gilbert area is experiencing a boom in new construction and is one of the fastest-growing neighborhoods in the nation—many workers are driving company cars. There are delivery drivers bringing windows, doors, roofing materials, and many other construction materials.
Another area that sees a lot of employees driving taxis, shuttles, buses, and other work vehicles is in and out of the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Drivers are picking up and dropping off travelers non-stop. Often, they are in a hurry to catch a flight. If an employee is in an accident, the employer won’t be responsible for paying medical bills—the insurance companies will.
But first, it takes a team to determine who was at fault and whose insurance company is responsible for the bills. The Husband and Wife Law Team works to gather evidence, talk to witnesses, read police statements, and review medical reports. With this information, we can determine who is at fault and what size settlement can be negotiated.
What to Do If You Are Involved in an Accident
If you are involved in an accident in a work vehicle, don’t panic. Call 911 and get medical assistance. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to have police and medical reports. Internal injuries and brain injuries can present themselves hours and even days later, so you need a medical specialist to examine you and others involved. Call your employer if you are able, and let them know to alert their insurance company that you have been involved in an accident. Present the insurance information to the police when they arrive.
If possible, snap a few photos of the location, the other vehicle, and the damage. This will help you remember the facts later when you are asked to recount what happened. If you are too injured to move, just wait for emergency vehicles to arrive. When the police take your statement, answer with facts and avoid taking or placing blame on anyone. If you did notice the other driver using a cellphone, violating a law, or driving under the influence of alcohol, mention it to the officers.
Next, contact the Husband and Wife Law Team and let us know you have been in an accident involving a work vehicle. We will take over from this point and review your work vehicle accident, allowing you to concentrate on recovering from your injuries. It’s free to have us take a look at your case and determine whether we can negotiate a settlement for you.
Don’t Worry – Your Employer Has Insurance for This
Employers are required by law to have insurance for work vehicles. If you are at fault for the accident, your employer’s insurance will cover the expenses. If you are not at fault, the insurance company for the other side is liable. While it’s important to drive carefully and always obey traffic laws, don’t panic if you are involved in an accident while driving a work vehicle.